‘Way off’: Craig Hope admits Newcastle ‘staff’ know key star isn’t playing well right now
As Newcastle United approach the final stretch of their Premier League campaign, all eyes remain fixed on the club’s pursuit of Champions League qualification. With two decisive matches left on the schedule, the pressure is on Eddie Howe’s men to deliver a strong finish.
A challenging away fixture against Arsenal looms, followed by the season finale at home to Everton. While qualification for Europe’s elite competition is within reach, nothing is guaranteed until the final whistle blows.
Central to Newcastle’s success this season has been Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward has led the line with confidence, skill, and consistency, netting an impressive 27 goals across all competitions.
Significantly, 12 of those goals directly influenced Newcastle’s victories, underlining just how crucial he has been to their climb up the table. Yet, despite his season-long heroics, Isak’s recent form has sparked concern within the club.
In recent weeks, Isak has appeared a shadow of the relentless forward fans have come to rely on. His last open-play goal came during the emphatic 5-0 win over Crystal Palace, and since then, his impact has noticeably waned.
His subdued performance against Chelsea drew criticism from pundits and supporters alike, a rare turn of sentiment for a player who has largely enjoyed unwavering praise. Even those closest to the team have acknowledged the issue.
According to respected journalist Craig Hope, Newcastle’s coaching staff are fully aware that their star striker is “way off his very best” and are monitoring the situation closely.
Still, while the criticism has grown louder, it must be tempered with perspective. Isak has been exceptional for most of the campaign, often shouldering the burden of expectation with minimal support.
Newcastle have had limited depth in the forward positions this season, which has placed a heavy physical and mental toll on the 25-year-old. That relentless schedule, paired with the pressure of maintaining elite-level performances, likely contributes to the slight drop-off in his form.
The numbers remain impressive nonetheless. In 41 appearances this season, Isak has started 40 matches, played over 3,200 minutes, and contributed six assists alongside his 27 goals. More importantly, he’s been the match-winner in 12 of those games. These statistics alone justify Newcastle’s hefty £150 million valuation of the striker.
They see him as a cornerstone of the club’s future, someone capable of leading the charge not just domestically, but in Europe as well.
Still, football is a results-driven business, and the expectation on top players to deliver in key moments never fades. With just two games left, Newcastle need their talisman to rise once more.
Champions League qualification remains within grasp, but ensuring that outcome may require another decisive moment from Isak. The timing could not be more critical. Delivering in these closing fixtures wouldn’t just be about numbers or accolades; it would reaffirm his status as a player for the big occasion.
Should he rise to the challenge, Isak would not only silence recent doubts but elevate his stature within the club’s history. Having already secured Newcastle’s only goal in the Carabao Cup final earlier this season, a strong finish would further cement his legacy. Moments like these define careers and solidify reputations. They’re what turn talented players into icons.
As the team prepares for its final showdowns, the message from within is clear. The job is not finished. Although dropping out of the top five now seems unlikely, the margin for error remains thin.
Newcastle can’t afford complacency, especially not with other contenders circling. While many have stepped up throughout the campaign, it is players like Alexander Isak who carry the weight of expectation in these decisive moments.
If he can rediscover his sharpness in front of goal and lead Newcastle across the finish line, any recent doubts will be quickly forgotten.
More importantly, the reward will be a seat at European football’s most prestigious table—an achievement that would validate both his talent and the club’s unwavering belief in his value.